Protect your hearing health while hitting the slopes.
For many people, snow and colder temperatures mean one thing: winter sports like downhill and cross country skiing. These activities give you a chance to move your body while enjoying the scenery and the great outdoors.
If you have hearing loss, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to plan a hearing loss-friendly ski trip:
- Protect your ears from the cold
- Protect your ears from the sun
- Be mindful of too much moisture
- Pack hearing aid supplies
Read on to learn more about each tip so you can be fully prepared for all of your ski excursions this winter!
Protect your ears from the cold
Since you’ll be spending time outside where it’ll likely be cold, you’ll want to make sure you’re taking measures to keep your ears warm and dry. You can choose a headband that goes around your ears, a hat, or earmuffs — anything that shields your ears from the cold and wind, since prolonged exposure may cause damage. Get more tips on protecting your hearing in cold weather here.
Protect your ears from the sun
Many people forget about sunburns when it comes to winter skiing. However, just because it is cold out does not mean that you cannot get a sunburn! Be prepared by packing sunblock for your hearing loss-friendly ski trip for those sunny days out on the slopes or trekking along the path. Apply sunblock to your ears before you head out, and reapply often to keep the delicate skin on your ears protected! If you wear hearing aids, be sure to remove them before applying sunscreen as it can damage your device.
Be mindful of too much moisture
Where there’s snow, there’s moisture — and moisture can potentially cause ear infections or damage your hearing aids, if you use them. Keep your ears and devices warm and dry by wearing a headband or hat, and pack along a dehumidifier or kit to dry your hearing aids out at the end of the day.
Pack hearing aid supplies
As with any trip, it is wise to pack extra hearing aid supplies during your hearing loss-friendly ski trip. Bring supplies to help keep your hearing aids dry and dry them out after each ski outing. Make sure to bring extra batteries too, so you’ll always be able to hear other skiers out on the slopes or trails.
For more tips on planning unforgettable hearing loss-friendly travel experiences, keep reading the CapTel blog!
